Stephen E. Baker

Stephen E. Baker, a cherished family man, skilled carpenter, gifted athlete, and devoted sports fan, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2024, in Urbana, Illinois. Born on October 5, 1949, in Shelbyville, Illinois, Stephen's journey through life was one marked by dedication, love, and the joy of simple pleasures.

The beloved son of Harold and Edith (Bolin) Baker, Stephen grew up in a close-knit family that would later extend to include his own loved ones. He was a 1970 graduate of the Illinois School of the Deaf in Jacksonville, where he excelled in basketball, baseball, and football.  Lettering in all three sports and receiving many awards along the way.  He married the love of his life, Catherine Scott, on November 10, 1979. Although she preceded him in death in 1988, their bond remained a guiding force throughout his life.

Stephen's legacy is carried on by his mother, Edith of Windsor; his two daughters, Stephanie (Anthony) Smith of Hazelwood, Missouri, and Elizabeth Baker of Azle, Texas; his sisters, Janet Daily of Sullivan, Colleen Quigley of Windsor, Kathy West of Windsor, and Jessie Nelson of Allenville; his brother, Scott Baker of Rochester; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his father Harold, and two brothers-in-law, Keith Nelson and Tim Daily.

Stephen's professional life as a carpenter was characterized by his meticulous craftsmanship and a career spanning several decades, culminating in his retirement in 2017 from Masterbrand Cabinets in Arthur. He was a member of the Windsor Christian Church. An avid Illini and Chicago Cubs fan, Stephen's enthusiasm for his teams was infectious, and he relished the camaraderie that came with sharing in their triumphs and tribulations. But it was not just sports that captured his heart; he also had a deep love for the outdoors. Fishing and mushroom hunting were activities that brought him immense joy. 

A public visitation will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at Lovins-Lockart Funeral Home. Private family graveside services will be held in Windsor Cemetery.  In Stephen's honor, memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or the donor’s favorite charity and mailed to Lovins-Lockart Funeral Home, P.O. Box 52, Windsor, IL 61957.

Friends and family are invited to light a candle or share a story at www.lockartgreenfuneralhome.com.

 

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